This story is provided by our sponsor, NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital.

One of the most significant moments in a woman’s life is receiving the news that she is expecting a child. A nine-month journey begins, as she prepares herself for the new arrival and all it entails. But sometimes, something unexpected happens to her during pregnancy or right after: instead of the joy she would expect to feel on bringing a new life into the world, she’s inexplicably sad — perhaps even depressed. She may be suffering from postpartum depression. Dr. Leah Susser, a reproductive psychiatrist at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital/Westchester Division in White Plains, discusses the condition and treatment methods.

1. What is postpartum depression?
Postpartum depression occurs when a woman feels sad after delivery. Symptoms may include difficulty sleeping, a change in appetite, difficulty getting enjoyment or feeling happiness, feelings of guilt, and being tearful. She may feel overwhelmed or anxious. It’s interesting to note that postpartum depression is relatively common.

2. What are the underlying causes?
There are multiple factors for postpartum depression. After delivery, there is a huge drop in hormone levels and many biological changes in the woman’s body that make her vulnerable. Genetic factors can also increase a woman’s risk, as can a lack of sleep from tending to the newborn. Lastly, pregnancy is a major life transition, and this psychological aspect can also contribute to postpartum depression.

3. What is the difference between “baby blues” and postpartum depression?
Baby blues are very common. A new mother may be more sensitive or tearful, but her symptoms are mild and transient. Symptoms peak around five days after delivery and usually resolve within a couple of days, and always within a couple of weeks of delivery. In contrast, postpartum depression persists over a long period of time. It should be noted that having baby blues does place a woman at risk for development of postpartum depression.

4. When does the condition typically occur?
Half of postpartum depression cases actually begin during pregnancy, and the other half occurs after delivery, usually within the first few weeks. Women are at greatest risk for depression within the first month after delivery.

5. Which women are most at risk for developing postpartum depression?
Risk factors include having a history of the condition, a history of depression, not enough social support, experiencing a stressful event during pregnancy, and having baby blues. However, postpartum depression can happen to any woman.

6. How does the condition affect the natural mother/child bonding experience?
Postpartum depression can affect a mother’s ability to bond with her newborn and studies show that this can have a long-lasting impact on the child into adulthood. Women with perinatal (during and after pregnancy) depression have higher rates of unhealthy lifestyle choices (smoking, alcohol, illicit drug use), which negatively affect both her and her offspring. In addition, depression, anxiety and stress during this period can effects the fetus and child. Fortunately, there are treatments that can help address this.

7. What sorts of treatments?
There are a number of psychotherapy approaches —including interpersonal psychotherapy, mother-infant dyadic (relationship) psychotherapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy (an action-oriented form of therapy) — that have been proven effective. When depression becomes more significant, medication can be added to help her recover fully. Sleep, good nutrition, exercise (which can all be hard to get in the postpartum period), as well as contact with social supports, are also important components of the treatment. Mom’s groups are a good way to feel less isolated after delivery, and to help a mother feel better. Bright light therapy may also be helpful for perinatal depression in a woman with major depressive disorder. As all women are unique, treatments can vary. That’s why it is important for a mother-to-be to have a consultation with a perinatal mental health provider for accurate diagnosis and a treatment plan that’s right for her.